You Can Pay Me Now, or Pay Me Later.

By Watson Scott Swail, President & Senior Research Scholar, Educational Policy Institute Back in 1971, the FRAM oil filter company introduced what would become a very popular commercial on TV that ended with this tag line: “You can pay me now, or pay me later.” The meaning being that the cost of a $10 oil filter could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars down the road. … Continue reading You Can Pay Me Now, or Pay Me Later.

Robin Hood, Michael Bloomberg, and College Affordability

By Watson Scott Swail, President & Senior Research Scholar, Educational Policy Institute Listen to today’s Swail Letter on iTunes and Soundcloud. This week, it was announced that the 11th richest person in the world, former New York City Mayor, and potential Democratic 2020 Candidate Michael Bloomberg gave his alma mater, Johns Hopkins University, a record-breaking $1.8 billion gift for student aid to ensure that their admissions … Continue reading Robin Hood, Michael Bloomberg, and College Affordability

Educational Opportunity: The Interview at Tarrytown

By Watson Scott Swail, President & Senior Research Scholar, Educational Policy Institute On April 13, 2015, I provided the keynote for the Tri-State Consortium of Opportunity Programs in Higher Education at their Biennial Conference. GIven the subject matter, I thought this might be of interest for readers and listeners. The interview is also available on Youtube here.    Q: There is a lot of research coming out, … Continue reading Educational Opportunity: The Interview at Tarrytown

The Over-Under on Underemployment

I am a product of higher education and my 10 years of postsecondary study have served me well. My college degrees gave me the opportunity to access better jobs and a better lifestyle. The College Plan worked for me, and it continues to help millions of others across the US, Canada, and beyond. What we are learning, however, is that it doesn’t help everyone in the same way. And for some, it doesn’t help at all. Continue reading The Over-Under on Underemployment

Double Lighting

By Watson Scott Swail, President & Senior Research Scholar, Educational Policy Institute   Last night I was stopped at a red light. It was late. Not very many cars around. The lights cycled but never gave me a green light. It offered others the opportunity to go, but then it went back to red for my lane. Thus, I sat through two red lights before I … Continue reading Double Lighting